Biana Ip: Discovering the path to a career in Criminology

Why UTS? 

In contrast to a lot of other students, I actually decided that I wanted to study at UTS quite early on. It began in Year 9 when I attended UTS Open Day (admittedly, I was a bit eager for university) and visited the campus for the first time. One of the most memorable activities was when the students at the time made ice-cream using liquid nitrogen (delicious?!). It was certainly an eye-opening experience as I met so many wonderful individuals that cemented my determination to attend UTS. I visited a lot of universities (all of them) that year, but UTS stood out to me the most as it offered advanced teaching opportunities, strong student involvement, and clear career guidance. 

My time at UTS has been incredibly valuable for my growth as an individual. I have developed and applied skills that have strengthened my capacity for research, critical thinking, and knowledge acquisition. UTS has also provided access to high-tech, industry-standard equipment and software programs that I would not otherwise have encountered. This exposure has ensured that my practical learning aligns with current industry standards and has greatly enhanced my ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. 

Why Criminology? 

I have always had a strong interest in science, and particularly the practical applications of scientific research in solving problems and investigating evidence. My interest in forensic science grew from this, and I knew I wanted to pursue it at university. While researching early entry options in my final year of high school, I discovered criminology and realised how it could complement my scientific studies, allowing me to explore the psychological and social dimensions of crime alongside the scientific aspects.

UTS was the only university that offered a program allowing me to study both forensic science and criminology together, which perfectly matched my academic interests and career goals. Choosing this double degree allowed me to combine my passion for scientific research with my fascination for understanding the causes and consequences of crime, setting the foundation for a multi-disciplinary and engaging career path.

The courses I have studied are designed with clear and concise learning goals, and each semester has introduced new concepts that have helped shape my career interests. One of the highlights was visiting the NSW State Archives & Records for a historiography task. The aim of the assignment was to demonstrate how historical data concerning Indigenous Australians shapes ideas, debates, and attitudes in the contemporary landscape in relation to the Criminal Justice System. This experience was highly engaging, it allowed me to connect historical records to modern social and legal contexts, whilst exploring histories of NSW through contemporary issues and policy decisions.

I am currently participating in an internship as part of one of my subjects, Professional Internship. I have had the opportunity to work under my professor, Philip Birch, as a research assistant in our study, Towards Trauma-Informed Policing. This is an emerging and highly relevant theme in the industry and being involved in this work has been extremely immersive. The experience has allowed me to develop practical, real-world skills while contributing to research that is at the forefront of contemporary policing practices.

I have been a member in the Science Alliance Club (formerly Forensic Science, before they merged), the Criminology Society, CREDO, and the Law Student’s Society. The Science Alliance Club has connected me with valuable opportunities, including skill building workshops, networking events, and career panels. Through the Law Student’s Society, I have attended the Law Cruise, where I had the opportunity to investigate the intersections of legal professions with criminology and forensic science. In CREDO I have made lifelong friends that share the same values and common interest, allowing me to expand my social circle and engage in discussion on topics that I might not otherwise have encountered. Through the Criminology Society, I have participated in numerous events where industry professionals shared their experiences and insights, helping shape my understanding of potential career paths. 

What’s next? 

I am still a bit uncertain about my future goals at the moment (aren’t all students?), but it is reassuring to know that many of my peers are in the same position. Looking forwards, I hope to contribute to research in criminological factors, particularly aiming to bridge the gap between forensic science and criminology. I am especially interested in areas of crime prevention and applying research to inform practical strategies that create real world changes. 

I am also interested in traveling and gaining international experiences. I want to work overseas to better understand how cultural and organisational differences influence forensic approaches and criminal justice practices. 

At the moment, I am uncertain if I will pursue honours or a master’s degree, but it is definitely something I am considering as I have a strong love for learning and expanding my knowledge.

Do you have any advice for future students?  

University isn’t always easy. It requires a lot of hard work and dedication to reach your goals, but it helps to remember that you’re not alone, most of your peers are navigating the same challenges of balancing work, life, and study. It’s a learning process, and things get easier the more you progress.

University is a place to make mistakes, learn, and grow. Choosing a degree is always a big decision, and although there may never be one “right” answer, there are many pathways to explore. Along the way, you’ll make lifelong friends, gain invaluable experiences, and build the skills to support your dreams, whatever they may be.

Don’t stress too much about picking the “wrong” path. Take it one step at a time, focus on your strengths, and trust that at UTS you will have guidance and support along the way.